Ana de Armas Reveals Her Unlikely Path to Becoming an Action Star

Ana de Armas shared intimate career stories at a major film festival. She spoke at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia on Friday. The actress discussed her long friendship with Keanu Reeves and her surprising journey into action films.

Her appearance offered a rare, personal look at her rise to global fame. According to Reuters, the festival session drew a large audience eager to hear her insights. De Armas traced her path from Cuba to becoming a Hollywood leading star.

From Knock Knock to Ballerina: A Full-Circle Journey with Reeves

De Armas said she and Reeves met over a decade ago. They worked together on the film “Knock Knock” when she first moved to Los Angeles. She barely spoke English at the time, which made communication difficult.

Despite the language barrier, they formed a strong bond. She described Reeves as incredibly kind and generous. Reuniting with him for the “John Wick” spinoff “Ballerina” felt deeply meaningful.

It was a full-circle moment for her career. Having his support a decade after their first project meant a lot. She praised the rich world built by Reeves and director Chad Stahelski.

An Unplanned Foray into Demanding Action Stardom

The actress never planned to become an action star. She did not see herself as athletic. Her shift began with roles in “No Time to Die” and “The Gray Man.”

Her role in “Ballerina” required another level of commitment. The physical training was brutal and lasted for months. She described learning complex stunts on the spot during filming.

The work was exhausting but rewarding. She enjoyed the challenge and loved expanding the film’s universe. This new path has reshaped her career in unexpected ways.

De Armas continues to seek complex roles that defy easy typecasting. Her story highlights a relentless pursuit of artistic growth. The evolution of Ana de Armas remains one of Hollywood’s most compelling narratives.

Dropping this nugget your way

What did Ana de Armas say about Keanu Reeves?

She said they bonded on the set of “Knock Knock” when she first moved to L.A. De Armas called him incredibly kind and stated their reunion for “Ballerina” felt like a full-circle moment in her career.

How did Ana de Armas get into action movies?

She said it was completely unplanned. It started with her role in “No Time to Die” and evolved through projects like “The Gray Man” and “Ghosted” before culminating in the demanding shoot for “Ballerina.”

What was her big career breakthrough?

De Armas cited Denis Villeneuve’s “Blade Runner 2049” as a major dream project. However, she noted that her 15-minute role in “No Time to Die” significantly changed her career trajectory and global recognition.

How did she prepare for her role in Blonde?

She underwent nine months of intense research and preparation. This included mastering Marilyn Monroe’s voice, movement, and energy, which she said fundamentally changed her approach to acting.

Where did Ana de Armas grow up?

She grew up in Cuba, where she performed for neighbors as a child. De Armas later moved to Madrid, Spain, at 18 before making her final leap to Los Angeles to pursue Hollywood roles.